Signaling further validation of its leadership in hybrid networking, hybrid cloud and IT services, CenturyLink, Inc. has been named a Microsoft Azure Expert Managed Services Provider (MSP). The certification
recognizes CenturyLink's investment in resources, training and
technology to deliver successful outcomes for their customers on
Microsoft Azure.

Inclusion
in the Microsoft Azure Expert MSP program is awarded to partners that
meet a stringent set of requirements, including verified proof of
excellence in customer delivery and technical expertise, and the
successful completion of an independent audit of their managed services,
people, processes, and technologies. Only the most high-fidelity cloud
managed services providers are awarded the Azure Expert MSP badge.

"After
two decades of experience supporting IT solutions for our customers
around Microsoft technologies, we are now well-positioned to capitalize
on our recent accreditation as a Microsoft Azure Expert MSP," said David
Shacochis, vice president of product management, CenturyLink. "This
achievement validates CenturyLink's cloud strategy of connecting
workloads to the right cloud, on the right network, with the right
value-added services that allow business customers to focus their
resources on delighting their customers."

Before
obtaining the certification, Microsoft conducted a rigorous audit to
confirm CenturyLink met or exceeded several requirements such as
optimizing operations, delivering lifetime value to customers, and
enhancing Azure's service offerings.

"Partners
play a central role in Microsoft's development to support companies in
their digital transformation projects," said Gavriella Schuster,
Microsoft corporate vice president, One Commercial Partner (OCP). "Our
customers are increasingly demanding the skills and expertise they
expect from our partner ecosystem. That's why we establish specific
certifications - in this case, on the expertise of Microsoft Azure. We
are pleased that CenturyLink is committed to our customers and
contributes to the strong growth of innovative projects on Azure."